The best camping near Merkle Natural Resources Management Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Merkle Natural Resources Management Area adventure.

Discover the serene beauty of Merkle Natural Resources Management Area.

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Community favorites near Merkle Natural Resources Management Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Merkle Natural Resources Management Area

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Stegan Farm

1 site · RV, Tent18 acres · Highland, MD

Our property is in Howard County, Maryland, and is super convenient to I-95, I-295, Hwy 32, and I-70. It is centrally located between Washington, DC, Baltimore, MD, and Frederick, MD. We are located right off of Highway 32 down a long, private paved driveway. What makes our property unique is all that it has to offer--it's an 18 acre oasis with mature woods protected by a conservation deed, lightly rolling hills, beautiful fields, wetlands, and a pond. It is not surprising to see deer and our local great blue heron on the property throughout the day. There is also a fire pit, which you are free to use. Firewood is free.

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(109)

1850's Greenock Farm, plus 4WD site

4 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Lothian, MD

Learn more about this land: 45 acre Historic farm, several sites to choose from depending on adventure wanderlust (including a 4WD drive site). Please read full description of the property. Located on private gravel lane, approximately 1/2 mile off county road. Either corn or soybeans with a woods backdrop. Secluded and private, yet 25 minutes to downtown Annapolis, 10 minutes to the Bay, great for cycling, paddleboarding, kayaking all 10/15 minutes from farm. Lots of great waterfront restaurants close by as well. DC 45 minutes, Baltimore 1 hour. Check out individual sites for description, each has its own personality. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. First listing actually has several options. For large campers/coach/fifth wheelers the area by the tractor shed will be the best. Around the corner there's two other choices both with firepits which will accommodate units up to 40 feet depending on your backing/maneuvering skills. Field of Dreams and Sycamore Ridge will accommodate campers under 25 feet with some backing/maneuvering skills. For those with 4WD and an off-road camper/trailer/tent choose Off the Grid, two entrances for easy access, travel along a logging road to an open site with fire pit. Suitable during dry conditions and not responsible for damage to vehicle or camper. Great spot for those who truly want to be in the woods off the beaten path, site takes about 5 minutes to reach due to low speed access. All sites as mentioned have no toilet/outhouse...for #2 please pack out or dig a hole, no presents needed for me or fellow campers.

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Parson’s Landing

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Madison, MD

Perfect waterfront camping. Flat, open and spacious. Enjoy the fire pit, Picnic table and porta John. Launch kayaks from the shore or bring your boat and launch at boat ramp a few miles away Picturesque sunsets Wildlife/ birders paradise Fishing, crabbing from shore. 20 mins from Cambridge, black water wildlife drive and Harriet Tubman museum 10 mins to Emily’s market 5 mins to slaughter creek marina to Wolford store, Taylor’s island boat ramp and restaurant No water or electricity

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Little Sparrow Farm

3 sites · Tents55 acres · Stafford, VA

Unique property! Primitive camping in an old growth forest with the convenience of being right in town. Wildlife is abundant on this conserved land which hosts 3 springs, creeks, large trees, huge fire pit, and meadows. The best part is, it's all within 5 minutes of restaurants, stores, and the conveniences of modern life!

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(528)

Bald Eagle Farm on the Patuxent

3 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Brandywine, MD

Bald Eagle Farm has been in our family for three generations. Today two generations still live and operate the family farm. We once raised tobacco and cattle and have now converted to growing hay and grain. My family wants to share the views and the experience of sleeping under the stars on our beautiful secluded farm. You will hear nothing but the wind, birds, frogs and insects while you doze off or enjoy the dark sky and camp fire. We live on the farm so we are always here to help you out if needed. We can provide you with the firewood you need and water from our deep well. We are here to make your stay as comfortable as possible and provide a restroom in the case of an "emergency". Recently named a finalist for 'Best Hipcamp in Maryland'! Thank you SO much for your support and we look forward to hosting you in 2022. There are three campsites on the farm, one by the pond and two by the river. Very secluded and all sites include , firepit, log bench, and a picnic table that seats 3-4 people. PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN FIREWOOD. AT THIS TIME WE ARE OUT FOR THE SEASON. The original river campsite has been moved to a more remote spot so that all campers can access the pond and pier to the river. Farm encompasses nearly 300 acres on the Patuxent River. There is access to the river on high tide via our private creek (must bring your own canoe or kayak) and 150 acres of marshland. Over 100 acres of woods to walk through and a pond for wildlife watching. Local Spots to Visit: Canoe/Kayak/Fishing: Clyde Watson Boating Area, Patuxent River Park, Patuxent Wetlands Park, Cedar Haven Fishing Area Hiking: Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Patuxent River Park, Cedarville State Forest, Rosaryville State Park, Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary, Maxwell Hall Park Places to Eat: Hardesty Haven Cafe, Moreland's Produce & Market, Cedarville Grocery. (Highly recommend packing well, we are approx. 20 minutes from a grocery store) Places to Drink: Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards, Romano Vineyard & Winery, Janemark Winery & Vineyard

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Paradise Lake Campground - Secluded

1 site · Tent3 acres · Waldorf, MD

They say a rainy day on the lake is better than a sunny day in the city and with the cool waterfront breezes, fishing and canoeing, early evening tequila on the dock, and a generally life-affirming vibe beckoning, who are we to argue with that logic? Just bring your sleeping bag and sleep in our tent at our designated camping spot that offers a picnic table, fire pit and beautiful river and scenic lake views. Wake to see deer drinking at the lake or geese swimming and fishing in the lake and creek. At night clearly see all the stars that twinkle while enjoying total peace and quiet. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish and fishing is allowed. We have two wooded acres behind our house that offer a safe, quiet, secluded spot to spend some time relaxing, away from the horns blaring, sirens screaming and cars honking. Located just 20 minutes outside the beltway we offer a close getaway that makes it feel like the city is hours away. The site is located in an area of expensive homes with each property being 3 or more acres and inhabited with some of the friendliest people you'll meet. They wave at you when you pass and if close enough, will speak and exchange a few friendly words. Nearby are great sites to visit. The Dr. Samuel Mudd house, Regency furniture Stadium, a site for amateur baseball games, the Schaegel Farms where the kids can play. eat lunch, pet all the animals and pick fresh strawberries, and the Scary Strokes indoor miniature golf course set to a Halloween theme. See the "DC at Dusk" guided tour in Wash, DC and see DC lit up at night on a guided mini-bus tour. Drive by and stop at some of the city’s top memorials and attractions, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Marine Corps War Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial, which are usually less crowded after dark. With transportation and navigation taken care of, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and sightsee. Want to have a little fun at the slot machines or poker tables? The MGM Grand is only about twenty minutes away in National Harbor which offers an outlet mall with many shopping and eating venues. They also have concerts with big celebrities, free jazz concerts outdoors every Thursday, a variety of restaurants plus a huge Ferris Wheel that lets you see DC. Maryland and VA all from a great vantage point. Parking is in our driveway and the site is about 30 yards away, a two minute walk along a lighted pathway. Camper vans or trailers will not be able to drive to or park at the camping area and are therefore not recommended. Come stay at Oscars' Oasis and enjoy what nature and the surrounding areas have to offer!

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Levin's Waterfront @ Blackwater

1 site · RV, Tent18 acres · Church Creek, MD

Learn more about this land: Levin's paradise is a private and quite campsite with gorgeous sunsets over Blackwater Wildlife Refuge! Wildlife abounds around the woodlands and marshlands that surrounds you in this secluded haven! The perfect place to rest and relax by the fire! You will find yourself a world away from it all, yet close to all of the wonderful attractions and dining that Cambridge has to offer! Bring your tent or camper and get off the grid! (No electric hook up, but great cell service!) Levin's is a 16 acre Waterfront parcel located adjacent to Blackwater Wildlife Refuge. Travel down a marsh grass lined driveway to a private open wooded space for your personal enjoyment! This is the perfect place to escape the business of life, relax, and recharge! Here at Levin's time passes a bit slower and you can savor each moment in time! You will be surrounded by Mother Nature! Perfect for Birdwatchers and nature lovers! Amazing refuge views by by day and gorgeous starry views by night! This safe space had many unique offerings including a relaxing waterside fire pit, nature walk, hammock, picnic table. Cambridge is centrally located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland! The perfect spot to stay if you want to explore the shore! This is the perfect home base for Eastern Shore day trips to Kent Island, Easton, Tilghman Island, St Michaels, Ocean City, and Assateague! Dorchester County is also the perfect place to go Eastern Shore "Island Hopping" and visit Hooper's, Taylors, Elliott's, Tilghman, and Kent Island for the weekend!

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Community Acers

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Hurlock, MD

My land has a simple story originally just a small 30 acre farm with a small farm house. But the current farm house which was built in 1890s was moved from a diffrent farm in 1975. The house orgiannly was on a farm which is 10 miles away on gravel branch rd in Hurlock Maryland. I’m glad to share my property it’s a very quit location and relaxing which is why I fell in love with this location.Learn more about this land:A secluded wide open space among 30 acres of corn and soybean fields on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Flat level, dry ground, and no trees field setting. Very quiet and great for star gazing. Farmhouse on the property. Backyard bonfire pit with seating and lighting and our side porch is included in your stay! The property is only 25 min away from Black Water Wild Life Refuge. The Choptank river is only 10 minutes away with a public boat ramp. One hour away from local beaches, Ocean City, Maryland and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.

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The Sanctuary at Oaks

7 sites · Tents13 acres · Hughesville, MD

It is a secluded location in Charlotte Hall, Maryland with plenty of room for parking, camping, and relaxing. This property features a creek for exploring and ample space for RVs or camping. The location is near amenities (gas stations, groceries, and hardware stores), Patuxent River Naval Air Station, and Budds Creek. Bring your tent, your car or your camper. Water and electricity are available. No restrooms or indoor facilities. Dogs on a case-by-case basis. Small campsite fires can be made - check with the owner at check-in for burn status.

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Button Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Germantown, MD

The Button Farm Living History Center is a hands-on education facility dedicated to preserving the history of the Underground Railroad. It is operated by the Menare Foundation through a long term lease agreement with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Several of us who work for the non-profit live in the Button Farm house and share the land with our pigs, geese, chickens and lots of wildlife. We're a close drive to Germantown and all the basic amenities of modern life, but when you come down our drive, you enter a world of natural beauty and rural quiet. When booking, keep in mind that all persons--regardless of age or whether or not they intend to spend the night--must be paid for. Our restroom includes hand sanitizer.

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HUNTER'S PARK BY DC

13 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Damascus, MD

The campground is situated in the wooded area on the back of 27 acre horse farm which is known as "The Stables at Mezza Luna." There is Wi-Fi to all the sites. Every year in the spring there are 4-6 Thoroughbred foals born that eventually will become racehorses. They live on the farm until they are 2 years old and then they go off to begin their racing career. In the daytime, when you are not sitting around your campfire, you can walk the fence lines and visit with the Mares and Foals or just watch them frolic in the fields. Hint! "They love peppermints, carrots and apples." Who knows, you might get to meet a future Kentucky Derby winner. Nearby attractions include: Vineyard 61 (5 minutes) Stone Silo Brewery (5 Minutes) Leechwood Haunted Forest (5 Minutes) October weekends only There are also chickens and peacocks that are very anxious to receive your love and affection with any type of treat (Raisins) as well. Kids can even go in the chicken coop and pick out their very own egg they can cook for their breakfast. For the energetic campers and kids there are also lots of trails that you can walk or hike on and there is a small stream the kids can play in. There also is a playground with swings, monkey bars, seesaw and trampoline. There is a dumpster in front of the barn for you to place your trash from your campsite. Please drop off during your stay or on your way out of the property. Don't miss out out on this hidden gem just minutes from our nation's capital.

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Alpaca Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Preston, MD

Welcome to Outstanding Dreams Farm! We are excited to start our journey as hipcamp Hosts. We have a large pasture surrounded by woods and adjacent to our alpaca barn available. Wildlife such as Whitetail deer, Bald Eagles, fox, and song birds are regular visitors here. Farm tours and visiting our Alpaca Farm Store are highlights of our farm. Interested in learning more about raising alpacas on your own? Please let us know ahead of time and we'll be happy to discuss this and answer your questions! Our sites include a picnic table and fire ring. There's also a well maintained Porta- Potty for our campers and we have firewood available for purchase at $5/bundle. This is listed under "Extras". (Please, no outside firewood to be brought on the property) Caroline County Maryland is a wonderful place to visit with plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking in nearby Martinak and Tuckahoe State Parks,Adkins Arboretum, access to public boat ramps, touring the Harriett Tubman Byway,produce stands, wineries, orchards,and close proximity to the Maryland and Delaware beaches as well as Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge in neighboring Dorchester County. We're also less than two hours from Washington D.C., and Baltimore, and less than an hour from our state capitol, Annapolis. You can find out more about us through our Facebook page, Outstanding Dreams Alpaca Farm, or our website, Outstanding Dreams Farm. Thank you, Phil and Vickie Liske

The best camping near Merkle Natural Resources Management Area guide

Overview

About

Dive into the natural wonders of Merkle Natural Resources Management Area. With its tranquil forests, scenic trails, and peaceful campsites, this area provides a perfect setting for camping adventures. From bird-watching to hiking, immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors and create lasting memories in this hidden gem.

When to go

The best time to visit Merkle Natural Resources Management Area is during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring, when the Canada geese are in residence. Summer brings lush greenery, but also higher temperatures and humidity. The visitor center is currently closed, so plan your trip accordingly.

Know before you go

Grounds are open from sunrise to sunset, offering full days of exploration.
Check for any park closures or alerts before your visit to ensure a smooth experience.
Accessibility information is available for those needing assistance.
Remember to bring your binoculars for an enhanced birding adventure.
While the visitor center is closed until further notice, ample outdoor activities await.